Ethel Caterham Marks 117th Birthday as World’s Oldest Person After Taking Title at 116
Updated
Updated · The Independent · Aug 21
Ethel Caterham Marks 117th Birthday as World’s Oldest Person After Taking Title at 116
3 articles · Updated · The Independent · Aug 21
Summary
Ethel Caterham, the world’s oldest living person, celebrated her 117th birthday on Friday at Hallmark Lakeview Care Home in Surrey with family and friends.
The British supercentenarian became the world’s oldest person in April 2025 after Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas died at 116, and she has since described her longevity rule simply: avoid arguments.
Born on August 21, 1909, Caterham said 117 has brought “many firsts,” including stroking a llama and holding hands with King Charles during a visit shortly after her 116th birthday.
Her life has spanned both world wars, postings in India, Gibraltar and Hong Kong, driving until age 97, and surviving Covid-19 at 110; she is also the last surviving subject of Edward VII.
The all-time longevity record still belongs to France’s Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years and 164 days, according to Guinness World Records.